Jordan Henderson spoke in an interview about why he decided to move to Saudi Arabia instead of staying elsewhere or staying in Liverpool.
In an interview with The Athletic, Henderson spoke about his astronomical salary, discussions with manager Jurgen Klopp and his decision to leave the Saudi Arabian side to join Al Ettifaq.
A key point for Henderson was his desire to play and enjoy football instead of sitting on the bench. He also wants to make sure he gets good game minutes to help England ahead of Euro 2024, where he hopes to play for England.
The England midfielder spoke about feeling different at Liverpool this summer and his previous experiences when Liverpool made big signings in his position. With Thiago Alcantara and Naby Keita brought in for big money, Henderson relied on himself and his training regime to show what form he was in and where he belonged.
However, when he returned to training in good shape this summer, he said it was the same and made him think “really, does it matter what I do this time?”
Speaking about his decision to move to Saudi Arabia rather than stay at another Premier League club, Henderson said:
“I needed something where I felt I could add value and do and try something new – a new challenge and for different reasons. ” the idea working with Steven Gerrard again in a new league and a new culture, as well as the idea of ​​using his experience to help those around him and add value to the team for Henderson.
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“This opportunity with Stevie (Gerrard) in a completely different league and in a completely different culture was something completely different that maybe would have excited us based on the project ahead, the league and my experience. trying to help in many different areas and feel appreciated by people .
“It’s nice to feel wanted. I know Stevie really wanted me. I know the club really wanted me to leave and they wanted us to try to build over the next two years, something that is here to stay and be one of the best leagues in the world.
